Minnesota Muslim Group Condemns 'Ohio Stabbings'

The Minnesota chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-MN) has issued a statement of condemnation after an Ohio State University student drove his SUV into a crowd of pedestrians on campus Monday, then went on a stabbing spree using a butcher's knife before being shot and killed by a police officer. The statement issued by CAIR-MN said that the Minnesota Muslim and Somali community condemn the stabbings.

"The Minnesota Muslim community condemn this attack and offer our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of all those affected," said CAIR-MN Executive Director Jaylani Hussein in a statement.

According to Ohio State University Police Chief Craig Stone, Abdul Razak Ali Artan, an OSU student, drove a van over a curb near Watts Hall, hitting pedestrians, and got out of the vehicle with a butcher's knife and started attacking people. Nine people were injured during Artan's spree before Ohio State University Campus Police Officer Alan Horujko shot and killed Artan. Horujko happened to be nearby and ended the confrontation in less than a minute.

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"We must not let the act of one individual, no matter what his motive or background, to further divide our community or our nation," Hussein added.

Hussein said he has faith in fellow Americans to do the right thing, and said this week must be an opportunity for all Americans to show that they can stand together against violence of all forms.

Chris Mosby (Patch Staff) contributed to this report.

Image via VasenkaPhotography, Flickr, used under Creative Commons